Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds - Dogs For Allergy Sufferers

By Jessica Grace


Loose skin flakes, known as dander, is what causes the allergic reaction to dogs for some people. Most people think it is the loose hair which they are reacting to, but it is actually the dander. There is a solution - a hypoallergenic dog. A dog with minimal dander which won't cause an allergic reaction in people who usually have allergies to dogs.

There's no such thing as 100% hypoallergenic dog, because all dogs release some dander. However, the following breeds listed shed very lightly and also release much less dander from their skin than other breeds:
# Bedlington Terrier

# Bichon Frise

# Chinese Crested

# Maltese

# Irish Water Spaniel

# Portuguese Water Dog

# Kerry Blue Terrier

# Poodle (toy, miniature and standard)

# Schnauzer (miniature, standard and giant)

# Xoloitzcuintli

These breeds will probably not trigger an allergic reaction. The Chinese Crested hairless variety and the Xoloitzcuintli both have no hair. As well as being the most hypoallergenic of all dog breeds, these dogs make very efficient hot water bottles.

Once you decide which of these dogs suits you, spend some time around the breed you've chosen to see whether you react. Spend a few hours in the home of the breeder, handling the dog and being in it's environment to see if you still have an allergic reaction. Chances are you won't.

Keep in mind that some people react to dog saliva when they are licked by a dog. Unfortunately, if you're allergic to dog saliva these breeds may not help you, because although they don't shed much dander, they will still lick.

For more information on hypoallergenic http://www.justdogbreeds.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jessica_Grace

Small Dog Breeds

By Sandra Oberreuter


Small dogs are cute and adorable! They make wonderful and devoted companions and they make good watchdogs. People love small dog breeds because they are great lap dogs and are so lovable. They are popular for people who live in apartments, RV’s or small homes since they don’t require a lot of room. They are also easier to travel with.

There are many different breeds and they all have different and unique temperaments and character tics. If you are thinking about getting a small dog breed, choose one that fits your lifestyle, living space, time you have to devote to him, how old your children are and grooming needs of the dog which you have to deal with.

These breeds are prone to health problems as most dogs and it's important that you get a dog from a reputable breeder.

The number of people having small dog breeds has risen according to the AKC. Their latest (2006) most popular dog list says that Yorkshire Terriers outranks the Golden Retriever in the number two spot this year. The small breed’s registry was 18% in the 1940’s but now they are 29% of the registry. The toy group has risen steadily since the 1970’s when they only had 12% of the registry versus 23% today.

Here is the list showing the small dog breeds spots:

#2 – Yorkshire Terrier

#5 - Beagle

#6 - Daschund

#8 - Poodles

#9 - Shih Tzu

#10 - Miniature Schnauzer

#11 Chihuahuas

#13 Pugs

#14 Pomeranians

#18 Maltese

#23 Miniature Pinschers

#27 Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

#29 Bichon Frise

In case you wondered what the number one dog is it's the Labrador Retriever.

Sandy has a web site on small dog breeds with information on different breeds including pages on dogs good with children and the elderly, choosing a dog and breeder, vet, dog clothes, dog houses and much more.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sandra_Oberreuter